[Gobsmacked]

Having lived through a difficult period in history doesn't give anyone an excuse for rudeness. There are even those who can be rude without having lived through difficult times. The post war years were probably also a struggle with rationing still being in place.

Personally I find that pain makes people grouchy and due to various assorted ailments elderly people do tend to suffer more aches and pains. Perhaps that accounts for some of it.